Elan Residential Project in Warner Officially Underway

Construction has officially begun on Elan, a new residential community at Kremzow Road in Warner, marking a notable milestone for South East Queensland’s housing market.


Read: Plans Unveiled for Major Childcare Centre and Cafe in Strathpine


The project, developed by AVID Property Group and being built by Villaworld Homes, was inaugurated with a sod-turning ceremony on July 27, marking the beginning of an ambitious venture aimed at addressing the region’s growing housing needs while prioritising environmental conservation.

Elan is set to provide 387 homes, offering a mix of one- and two-storey residences. This diverse housing portfolio is designed to cater to a wide range of homebuyers, from first-time owners to growing families seeking more space.

Elan
Photo credit: avid.com.au

Anthony Demiris, AVID General Manager Queensland, highlighted the project’s significance in meeting the increasing demand for housing in South East Queensland. He said they observed a rising trend of buyers moving away from inner-city locations, who are not just looking to upgrade their homes and lifestyles, but also seeking more affordable housing options in suburban and regional areas.

What sets Elan apart is its commitment to environmental stewardship. As part of the development plan, AVID Property Group will dedicate 9.91 hectares of land containing vital koala habitat to the local Council. 

This move has earned praise from Cr Cath Tonks, who expressed gratitude for the developer’s environmental consciousness.

Furthermore, the project includes innovative wildlife protection measures. Three koala crossings will be constructed, with two underpasses at the community entrances and a third, groundbreaking overpass across Kremzow Road. This overpass will be the first of its kind in Moreton Bay and will feature fauna monitoring capabilities, contributing to research and improving understanding of koala movements in the area.

The Elan development represents a thoughtful approach to urban expansion, balancing the need for new housing with environmental conservation. It reflects a growing trend in property development that seeks to create communities that coexist harmoniously with local ecosystems.


Read: Strathpine Set to Shine as North Brisbane’s Family Entertainment Hub


Prospective homebuyers and interested parties can look forward to the opening of the sales and information centre, anticipated to launch in early 2025. This milestone will offer a tangible glimpse into the vision of Elan and provide detailed information for those considering making Warner their new home.

Published 5-August-2024

Harry Mack Brings His Viral Rap Magic to Eatons Hill Hotel

Viral rap sensation Harry Mack is bringing his lightning-fast lyrical skills to Brisbane’s Eatons Hill Hotel this October, as part of his debut “Odyssey” tour of Australia and New Zealand.


Read: Models and Boom Crash Opera Set to Rock Eatons Hill with James Reyne


The Grand Ballroom of Eatons Hill Hotel will host this must-see event, with doors opening at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, 4 October 2024.

From Jazz Drums to Rap Dreams

Photo credit: Harry Mack/Facebook

Mack’s journey to rap stardom took an unexpected route. Initially aspiring to be a jazz drummer, he pivoted to pursuing his passion for rap in his twenties. His unique approach of uploading freestyle videos to YouTube quickly caught the attention of viewers worldwide.

Described as a fusion of instrumental jazz improvisation and impactful hip-hop lyricism, Mack’s performances are a testament to his constant drive to evolve as an artist. He consistently pushes the boundaries of his abilities while exploring new avenues of rap expression.

Viral Breakout and Rising Fame

Photo credit: Harry Mack/Facebook

The rapper’s breakthrough came in 2017 when his “Venice Beach Freestyle (Part 1)” video went viral, transforming his cult following into a global fanbase. Mack’s innovative “Guerrilla Bars” and “Omegle Bars” series, featuring impromptu freestyles for strangers on the street and online, further cemented his reputation as a freestyle master.

Star-Studded Recognition

Mack’s extraordinary talents haven’t gone unnoticed by the hip-hop elite. He’s showcased his skills for rap legends like Kendrick Lamar and Joey Bada$$, and made appearances on popular American TV shows including “Ellen” and “NBA on TNT.”

Growing Discography

Photo credit: Harry Mack/Facebook

While best known for his freestyles, Mack has also been building a solid discography. He released his debut album, “Contents Under Pressure,” in 2017, followed by several mixtapes and EPs. His latest offering, “The Process,” dropped earlier this year.

YouTube Phenomenon

Mack’s YouTube channel has become a powerhouse of freestyle content, boasting over 2.8 million subscribers and an impressive 280 million views. His videos showcase his uncanny ability to craft complex rhymes on the spot using random words suggested by fans.


Read: Eatons Hill Hospitality Group Dominates QHA Awards, Snagging Five Wins


Don’t Miss Out

Tickets for this one-night-only Brisbane show are available through Moshtix. Given Mack’s rising star status and the intimate venue setting, fans are encouraged to secure their spots early for what promises to be an unforgettable night of lyrical mastery.

Published 2-August-2024

Failed Ram-Raid Leads to Manhunt in Strathpine

Police are currently searching for multiple suspects following a failed ram-raid attempt on a tobacco store in Strathpine which occurred last night. The incident, which took place at Habibi’s Convenience and Tobacco Store on Gympie Road, has left one person injured and a stolen vehicle destroyed.



At approximately 10 PM on July 31, authorities were alerted to a white Nissan Navara dual-cab ute crashing into the bollards at the front of the recently opened shop. According to police reports, three individuals exited the vehicle and proceeded to set it on fire before assaulting a 26-year-old man from Warner who was in the vicinity.

The Queensland Fire Department responded swiftly, extinguishing the blaze by 10:25 PM. Their quick action prevented significant damage to the business, although minor fire and smoke damage was reported.

The Nissan Navara, which exploded into flames during the incident, was confirmed to have been stolen from an address in Booval between July 9 and 11. It was towed from the crime scene at around 11 AM today.

Eyewitness Teneale Wells, a Strathpine resident, described the scene: “As I got closer to it, I saw the engulfed car and a group of people were standing near the coffee shop. Then police arrived, and the fire truck came up behind me and a few minutes later another fire truck came from the other direction.”



The assault victim was transported to Prince Charles Hospital with minor facial injuries.

As of now, the suspects remain at large. Police have established a crime scene and are conducting ongoing investigations. They urge anyone with information related to the failed ram-raid in Strathpine to come forward and contact the authorities.

Published 1-August-2024

Eatons Hill Community Rallies to Revive Bike Bus for School Kids

A grassroots initiative in Eatons Hill has encouraged children to ride bikes to school in a revival of the bike bus concept, with numbers tripling since its launch.



Mindy Robinson, a mother of three, started the Eatons Hill bike bus in late April 2024 with just five children, inspired by a similar program in the US. Her initiative quickly grew, and now more than fifteen children participate. 

Robinson’s motivation stemmed from her two older boys’ desire to ride their bikes to school and the inspirational videos of Sam Balto, a well-known bike bus organiser in Portland, USA.

Robinson highlighted that the kids are not just getting to school; they are developing friendships, overcoming fears, gaining confidence, and learning independence. She noted the community’s support and the joy it brings to the children, who look forward to the twice-a-week rides.

Challenges and Solutions

Starting a bike bus in Australia comes with its own set of challenges, such as the need for waivers, Blue Cards, and insurance. Robinson noted that Australia’s public liability laws differ significantly from the USA, creating additional hurdles. She expressed the need for government support or grants to help officiate the program, allowing local parents to volunteer without worrying about liability in case of mishaps.

Despite these challenges, Robinson found ways to ensure safety and compliance. The Eatons Hill bike bus uses footpaths and lollipop crossings, contrasting with Balto’s use of neighbourhood greenways in Portland, which feature speed bumps and traffic diverters to reduce cars on the road.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

The Eatons Hill bike bus has had a noticeable impact on the local community. Parents have reported their children being more eager to wake up and prepare for school on bike bus days. One parent shared that their child was never as enthusiastic in the mornings as on bike bus days.

The success of the bike bus in Eatons Hill has led to discussions about expanding the initiative. Robinson expressed hope that with government support, more bike buses could be set up in other suburbs, helping to reduce traffic congestion during school drop-off times and promoting healthier lifestyles for children.

The mother highlighted that the school commute in Brisbane makes up one in four car trips during the morning peak hour, and the roads are noticeably quieter during school holidays. She sees bike buses and walking buses as opportunities to reverse the trend of kids being chauffeured to the school car drop-off point.



Published 31-July-2024

RSPCA Investigates Alleged Rat Bait Poisoning of Cavoodle in Albany Creek

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is investigating the alleged poisoning of a one-year-old cavoodle in Albany Creek. The dog’s owner claims that after ingesting rat bait that a neighbour allegedly left around their property, her pet passed away from internal bleeding.



She took to social media to warn other pet owners in the area, stating that her cavoodle had been poisoned twice in the past two weeks. She also mentioned that a man at the vet clinic, who lives near the Albany Creek cemetery, reported a similar incident with his dog.

An RSPCA Queensland spokeswoman confirmed that an animal welfare complaint had been lodged and that the matter was under investigation. While the investigation is ongoing, the RSPCA emphasised that anyone found deliberately poisoning animals could face charges under the Animal Care and Protection Act.

The incident reminds individuals using poisons for pest control to exercise caution and consider their duty of care to other animals. The RSPCA urges pet owners who suspect their animals have been poisoned to seek immediate veterinary treatment.



Her post on Facebook garnered significant attention, with over 300 comments from concerned community members. It is still being determined whether the Brisbane City Council was notified of the incident.

Published Date 29-July-2024

Albany Creek Set To Transform Car Park To A Community Hub

A proposal has been submitted to transform an underutilised 4,511sqm overflow parking area at Albany Creek Village shopping centre into a multi-use development.



The site, located on Wruck Crescent, could soon house a range of services that many locals have long desired. At the forefront of the plans is a new childcare centre, designed to cater to up to 120 children. This addition could provide much-needed relief for working parents in the area, offering seven activity rooms and an outdoor play area.

Artist’s perspective of childcare entry
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay / DA/2024/1681

Pet owners in Albany Creek may also have reason to celebrate, with plans for a Pet Barn outlet including veterinary services. This would bring convenient pet care and supplies closer to home for many residents.

Artist’s perspective of childcare awning and street facade
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay / DA/2024/1681

While details are still being finalized, the proposal also includes space for potential food and drink outlets, healthcare services, and office spaces. These additions could create new job opportunities within the community and reduce the need for residents to travel outside Albany Creek for these services.

Artist’s perspective of retail entrance
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay / DA/2024/1681

The plan aims to make efficient use of the space, with single-storey buildings covering 42% of the site. To address potential parking concerns, the proposal includes 37 new parking spaces and 12 bicycle spaces. Pedestrian access would also be improved with plans to widen the footpath along Wruck Crescent.

Artist’s perspective of retail entrance
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay / DA/2024/1681


Local residents interested in learning more about the proposal or providing feedback can access the full application details on the Moreton Bay City Council’s DA Tracker website. As the council reviews the application, community input may play a crucial role in shaping the final outcome of this potentially transformative project for Albany Creek.

Published 30-April-2024

Albany Creek Park Under Surveillance: CCTV Sparks Community Debate

Albany Creek residents are divided over the recent installation of security cameras at Cuthbert Park on Devoran Street.



Photo Credit: Pexels

The decision for the cameras comes in response to a reported increase in vandalism and anti-social behaviour, but not everyone is convinced it’s the right move.

Moreton Bay City Council maintains the cameras are essential for public safety, crime prevention, and service improvement, and a spokesperson noted receiving emails praising the swift action. Some residents echo this sentiment, citing the potential to deter crime and capture evidence in the event of an incident.

CCTV cameras installed at Albany Creek park
Photo Credit: Pexels

However, others express privacy concerns, feeling like “Big Brother is watching” them. One resident questioned why cameras are needed when police records show only one complaint in the past six months, regarding youths drinking and pulling out a “give way” sign on 11 June. Queensland Police confirmed increased patrols in the area since then, but no other incidents have been reported.

The debate also touches on broader issues, such as the alarming rate of public assaults on women. A local mother argued that cameras could make women feel safer while exercising in the park. 

Meanwhile, another Albany Creek resident revealed their child was attacked at the park in broad daylight and expressed relief at the added security.



As the cameras remain in place for the next 10-12 weeks, the community grapples with the balance between safety and privacy, highlighting the ongoing conversation surrounding surveillance in public spaces.

Published Date 18-July-2024

Models and Boom Crash Opera Set to Rock Eatons Hill with James Reyne

Rock fans are in for a treat as two iconic bands from the 1980s, Models and Boom Crash Opera, join forces for a nationwide tour. This exciting collaboration, which began as a single co-headline show in Melbourne, has blossomed into a full-scale tour that promises to deliver a nostalgic yet fresh rock experience.


Read: Alice Cooper Rocks Brisbane Bar with Surprise Midnight Gig After Eatons Hill and Gold Coast Shows


One of the most anticipated stops on this tour, called the ‘Double A Side Tour,’ is the upcoming show at Eatons Hill Hotel in Brisbane on November 16. This performance is set to be a triple threat of Australian rock royalty, with special guest James Reyne opening the night. 

Eatons Hill, known for its spacious venue and excellent acoustics, provides the perfect setting for what’s sure to be an unforgettable evening of music.

Models

Photo credit: Models/Facebook

Models, led by Sean Kelly and featuring Andrew Duffield, Mark Ferrie, and Ash Davies, have long been celebrated for their innovative approach to music. Emerging from Melbourne’s vibrant punk and new wave scene of the late 1970s, the band has consistently pushed boundaries and reinvented their sound over four decades. 

The band experienced several periods of inactivity and reunion over the years. After going on hiatus in 1988, they came together for reunion shows in 2000, 2006, and 2008. Since 2010, the band has been consistently active in the music scene.

Their biggest commercial success came in July 1985 with “Out of Mind, Out of Sight,” which topped the Australian singles charts. The album of the same name followed in August, reaching No. 3 on the Australian albums chart. This success extended internationally, with the album making an appearance on the Billboard 200 in the United States. The title track also achieved notable success in the U.S., peaking at No. 37 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Boom Crash Opera

Photo credit: Boom Crash Opera/Facebook

Boom Crash Opera, formed in 1984, brings their own brand of pop-rock energy to the tour. The band’s lineup has evolved over the years, with the current roster consisting of four members:  Dale Ryder, Peter Farnan, Peter Maslen, and John Favaro.

With hit singles like “Great Wall,” “Hands Up in the Air,” and the internationally successful “Onion Skin,” the band has left an indelible mark on the Australian music landscape. Their dynamic performances and catchy melodies are sure to have the crowd singing along to every word. 

Boom Crash Opera’s most commercially successful albums include their self-titled debut “Boom Crash Opera,” followed by “These Here Are Crazy Times!” and “Fabulous Beast.”

Double A Side Tour

Photo credit: James Reyne/Instagram

The addition of James Reyne as the opening act adds another layer of Australian rock credibility to the night. Reyne, known for his work with Australian Crawl and his successful solo career, will set the stage for an evening of pure homegrown talent.


Read: Eatons Hill Hospitality Group Dominates QHA Awards, Snagging Five Wins


Fans eager to catch this remarkable lineup can purchase tickets through the official websites of both Models and Boom Crash Opera. With the tour extending into 2025, there are plenty of opportunities to experience this celebration of Australian rock, but the Brisbane show at Eatons Hill on November 16 is not to be missed.

Published 19-July-2024

Two Wheels, Big Impact: How a Mum’s Idea Sparked the Eatons Hill Bike Bus Revolution

As the school holidays wind down in Eatons Hill, anticipation builds for an unusual sight that will soon return to the suburban streets. Twice a week, a vibrant procession of bicycles will weave through the neighbourhood, filled with the excited chatter of children heading to class. This isn’t your typical school run – it’s the Eatons Hill Bike Bus, a community initiative that’s set to revolutionise the morning routine for local families when school resumes.


Read: Bray Park Family’s Selfless Efforts Nourish Homeless Community


Founded by Mindy Robinson, a mother of three, the Bike Bus was born from a simple desire: to nurture her sons’ enthusiasm for cycling to school. 

“With a passion for staying active and what seems to be lots of excited local school children wanting to ride to and from school, I decided it was time to cement my status within our community as the ‘Local Bike Bus Lady’,” Robinson quips through her Instagram page.

Photo credit: Eatons Hill Bike Bus/Facebook

Operating on Wednesday and Friday mornings, the Bike Bus follows a set route with three designated stops. But this isn’t just a quiet ride to school – the journey is accompanied by upbeat music, adding an element of fun that keeps the young riders engaged and energised.

Photo credit: Eatons Hill Bike Bus/Facebook

At the helm of this two-wheeled convoy is Jono, the main local volunteer. Accompanied by his twin daughters, Elsie and Ari, Jono leads the group from the front, ensuring safety and setting the pace for the young cyclists.

Safety is paramount in this volunteer-run initiative. The Bike Bus provides a secure environment for children to cycle to school, addressing parents’ concerns about traffic and road safety. It’s not just about getting to school; it’s about fostering independence, promoting physical activity, and building a sense of community.

Photo credit: Eatons Hill Bike Bus/Facebook

The Bike Bus has quickly become a hit with local families. To maintain enthusiasm and encourage good cycling habits, Robinson and her team have introduced several incentives. The ‘Rider of the Week’ award recognizes children who demonstrate responsibility, care, or improvement in their riding skills. Winners receive an award and get to pick a prize from the coveted prize box.


Read: Albany Creek Dad, Too Big to Sit in Planes, Overcomes Weight Struggles


As the Eatons Hill Bike Bus gains momentum, it’s clear that this initiative is more than just a novel way to get to school. It’s a community-building exercise, a lesson in road safety, and a step towards a more sustainable future. 

Published 11-July-2024

Sam Short from Rackley Swimming Club Makes a Splash, Secures Olympic Spot Despite Illness

Sam Short, the 20-year-old Bunya swimming sensation from Rackley Swimming Club, has cemented his place on the Australian Olympic team for Paris, despite a recent battle with a gastric illness. 



Photo Credit: Sam Short/ Instagram

Short, who burst onto the international scene at the 2023 World Championships in Fukuoka, showcased his middle- and long-distance prowess by claiming medals in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle events. His gold medal in the 400m freestyle was particularly noteworthy, coming within a hair’s breadth of breaking Ian Thorpe’s long-standing Australian record.

But Short’s ambitions extend beyond personal bests and national records. He has his sights set on a showdown with Chinese swimmer Sun Yang, a three-time Olympic gold medalist who is eligible to return to competition after serving a four-year doping suspension. Short, who views Sun as a “villain” in the swimming world, is confident he can defeat the 32-year-old veteran in Paris.

From Rising Star to Olympic Hopeful

Photo Credit: Sam Short/ Instagram

Short’s journey to the Olympics has been nothing short of remarkable. After narrowly missing the team for the Tokyo Olympics, he made his mark with a silver medal in the 4x200m freestyle relay at the 2022 World Championships. He then continued his ascent at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, seizing gold in the 1500m and silver in the 400m.

Sun, on the other hand, has a long and controversial history in the sport. Despite his significant success, which includes numerous Olympic and world titles, doping allegations and suspensions have tarnished his career.

A Setback and a Strategic Decision

Photo Credit: Sam Short/ Instagram

Despite his recent illness, which saw him lose a significant amount of weight and strength, Short secured his Olympic qualification by finishing second in both the 400m and 800m freestyle events at the Australian trials. However, he and his coach, Damien Jones, decided to withdraw from the 1500-metre freestyle to prioritise his health and recovery.



The Road to Paris

Photo Credit: Sam Short/ Instagram

Confident in Short’s abilities and preparation leading up to the illness, Jones is optimistic about his chances in Paris. He believes that the focus now shifts to ensuring Short is back to full health and peak performance for the Games.

Published Date 09-July-2024